Prison ChaplaincyAlpha for Prisons is run by both single denomination and ecumenical Chaplaincy teams. Chaplaincies have found it positive to run Alpha as an ecumenical course with separate follow-up for the different denominations. A range of different follow-up materials and courses are available for this purpose.
The prison Chaplain, with the Governor’s authority, gives permission for volunteers to run Alpha.
Local churchChurches can provide speakers, leaders and helpers for the Alpha course in their local prison. It is essential that those running the course work closely within the regulations of the prison, so that they do not jeopardise the relationship with the prison authorities or put anyone at risk.
OfficersA number of prison officers have run Alpha courses for prisoners and for fellow colleagues in their prison.
Christian organisationsVarious Christian organisations, such as the Salvation Army and Prison Fellowship, help run Alpha courses in prisons as part of their outreach.
Inmates on wings
Prisoners are often the best at reaching fellow prisoners and inviting them on a course. Some chaplaincies encourage groups of prisoners to run Alpha for those on their wing interested in finding out about the Christian faith.
I am new to the Alpha Group. I have taken the Alpha course a couple of years ago and have been praying for a ministry to be involved in.
There are currently more than 670 UK churches registered as 'ex-offender' churches, and Caring for Ex-Offenders is now operating in the UK, Canada, USA and South Africa.
Alpha for Prisons sent a team of six to lead a three-day mission at the prison on the Channel Island of Guernsey in January.